These are breadcrumbs…… for the next mother who buries her child

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My son died in early December……. just writing that is so strange. But, as I begin to step back into my life, I have to be able to write it and to say it without falling apart.

It feels like I’m beginning a new phase, with an entirely new set of challenges. There are fewer “I have to get out of here now” moments (like being startled by a comment or deeply moved by an unexpected kindness); but I’m still mastering how to manage those times when I do lose it. My confidence increases each time I am able to hold back the storm until I am alone (which is one way I know I’m making progress).

Going back to work full-time requires that I “act normal” for longer and longer periods of time. No more waiting until I have enough energy to do something; I’m now bound by my schedule. And, knowing that people are counting on me adds an enormous amount of stress. All of this requires energy that I don’t always have (some days, I have only enough energy to get dressed). I honestly don’t know if I could have made it back without the support, patience and flexibility from my work team.

I am already a different person – at work and at home. I’m very comfortable with silence, and spend more time in my head than I do with other people. When I do interact with people, the conversations happen very differently. For me, the spaces between the words no longer need to be filled. When a topic is over, there is no rush to begin another. I’ve noticed that not everyone is entirely comfortable with extended silence.

This is one of my favorite quotes:

We fight for the right to grieve in a society that would rather we “get over it” in three days. Grieving God’s Way by Margaret Brownley

I used to get so angry when I felt people rushing me (advising me how to move on, or pushing me to cheer up and be grateful I had another son). Over time, my perspective has changed; people who care about you may not know what to say or how to say it, but they just want you to be OK. All of the wonderful people in my life – family and friends who have carried me with their love and support; I can almost feel their relief when I am having a good day. I know in my heart that their deepest wish is for me to feel better.

My son died 15 months ago, and I still go weak in the knees when I say it. I am different, everything is different. There is no “getting better,” there is only integrating loss and making meaning in your life as you can. My heart goes out to you, and while I am still devastated, this second year – so far – I am functioning better.